This afternoon, we had the distinct pleasure of commencing Fashion Week by speaking with designer and industry pioneer, John Patrick of Organic by John Patrick. After only a few moments, we were deeply moved by his zeal and humility and found ourselves immersed in his genuine ethos as well as his insightful and candid commentary on the status of the fashion industry. What we found was a man whom epitomizes truth and integrity.

John unequivocally expressed the validity of what so many of us have suspected; the fashion industry has become corrupted and polluted by the establishment and its attempt to capitalize on the growing trend of being sociopolitically conscious. But John appeared to be fully aware of an ulterior motive; the existence of manipulative marketing ploys and trend exploitation. He emphatically stated that, “I am not about trends … trends make me sick." Instead, he was far more interested in "purposeful industrial techniques … in building things.”

John impressed upon us the fact that he sits “in a unique position as a creative where [he is] much more aware of what is happening sociopolitically” and the importance of creating genuine relationships within communities; where consumers are educated and businesses produce quality products that are ethically created and manufactured at fair wages.

Upon our departure, we found ourselves refreshed, educated and grateful. We made a new friend today; an innovator immersed with unselfishness and candor. And it quickly became obvious that he naturally applies these very values into every aspect of his work.

If only all designers could offer such inherent and selfless contributions.

Fashion legend, Marylou Luther attending Organic by John Patrick at New York Fall 2014 Fashion Week.

Photos by Jodi Jones using the brand new Hasselblad HV.

Here I photographed fashion designer John Patrick of Organic by John Patrick after his show with my 1968 Hasselblad 500.

ORGANIC by John Patrick – Ethical and organic clothing made in New York.